15082, Sturgeon, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 15082, Sturgeon, Pennsylvania is 95 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 15082 has some form of health insurance. 28.06 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 100.00 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase. Military veterans should know that percent of the residents in the ZIP Code of 15082 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 73 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 243 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15082. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 47 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 10,404 health care providers accessible to residents in 15082, Sturgeon, Pennsylvania.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Sturgeon, PA (ZIP Code 15082)

This analysis provides a Lung Cancer Score assessment for primary care resources within Sturgeon, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 15082), focusing on factors relevant to early detection, diagnosis, and patient support. The score is not a definitive ranking but rather a comparative evaluation based on publicly available data and reasonable assumptions regarding the quality of care. The aim is to highlight strengths and weaknesses to inform residents and healthcare providers alike.

The foundation of a strong Lung Cancer Score lies in accessible and well-equipped primary care. In Sturgeon, primary care availability is assessed by considering the physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of comprehensive services, and the integration of technology. The availability of primary care physicians is crucial for early detection. Regular checkups and screenings, especially for individuals at high risk (smokers, those with a family history), are critical for catching lung cancer in its earliest, most treatable stages.

The physician-to-patient ratio in Sturgeon is a key indicator. While precise figures require access to proprietary datasets, we can make reasonable inferences. The overall population of Sturgeon is relatively small. If we assume a similar physician-to-patient ratio to the surrounding Allegheny County, we can estimate the average number of patients per primary care physician. A lower ratio generally indicates better access, allowing doctors more time with each patient. This, in turn, can lead to more thorough examinations and proactive screening recommendations.

Beyond the raw number of physicians, the quality of care is paramount. Does the practice offer comprehensive services? This includes the ability to perform basic pulmonary function tests, provide smoking cessation counseling, and have established referral pathways to pulmonologists and oncologists. Practices that prioritize preventative care and patient education will score higher. The ability to facilitate timely referrals for further diagnostic tests, such as CT scans, is also critical.

Telemedicine adoption is another important factor. The use of telemedicine has surged in recent years, especially in rural areas. Telemedicine can improve access to care, particularly for follow-up appointments, consultations, and medication management. Practices that offer telehealth options score higher. This is especially relevant for patients who may have mobility issues or difficulty traveling to appointments. Telemedicine can also provide access to specialists who may not be readily available in the immediate area.

Mental health resources are a crucial component of the Lung Cancer Score. A cancer diagnosis is a traumatic event that can significantly impact mental health. Access to mental health support, such as counseling and therapy, is vital for patients and their families. Practices that have established relationships with mental health professionals or offer in-house counseling services score higher. Integration of mental health services into the overall care plan demonstrates a holistic approach to patient well-being.

Standout practices within Sturgeon are identified based on their commitment to comprehensive care, technological integration, and patient-centered approach. These practices often demonstrate a proactive approach to lung cancer screening and prevention. They may have dedicated staff members focused on patient education and support. They actively participate in community outreach programs to raise awareness about lung cancer risks and early detection strategies.

The effectiveness of these practices can be gauged by analyzing patient outcomes, such as early diagnosis rates and patient satisfaction scores. While specific data is often confidential, the presence of a strong patient-centered culture is a significant indicator of quality. Practices that prioritize communication, empathy, and shared decision-making are more likely to achieve positive outcomes.

The analysis also considers the availability of lung cancer screening programs. The United States Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) recommends annual lung cancer screening with low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) for adults aged 50 to 80 years who have a 20 pack-year smoking history and currently smoke or have quit within the past 15 years. The availability of these screening programs within the primary care network is a crucial factor in the Lung Cancer Score.

The presence of support groups and patient advocacy organizations also contributes to the overall score. These resources provide invaluable support to patients and their families, offering emotional support, practical advice, and access to information. Practices that actively connect patients with these resources demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive care.

In conclusion, the Lung Cancer Score for Sturgeon, PA (ZIP Code 15082) is determined by a combination of factors, including physician-to-patient ratios, the availability of comprehensive services, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and the presence of standout practices. While specific data is often limited, this analysis provides a framework for understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the primary care landscape in Sturgeon. This helps residents make informed decisions about their healthcare and encourages healthcare providers to improve their services.

For a more detailed and visually informative analysis of healthcare resources in Sturgeon, including the location of practices, the availability of specialists, and other relevant data, we encourage you to explore CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive maps that visualize healthcare data, allowing you to gain a deeper understanding of the resources available in your community.